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Hand injuries continue to be the primary source of safety incidents at SSOE and our partner firms. It is important to note that all of these injuries were preventable.

Pinch points bite: A worker installing a hanging door had their fingers pinched between the frame and trolley. Completing a Safe Plan of Action and wearing gloves would have prevented or greatly reduced injury.

Hot slag burns: A welder dropped hot slag into his welding glove and burned his fingers. The proper use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) – sealing or taping closed cuffs of gloves would have prevented injury.

Stop: Step back and review the task. Are guards in place? Are there any pinch points? Jagged edges? Hot surfaces? Other risks?

Think: What can go wrong? Is there a safer way? Can I use a tool instead of my hands? Am I wearing the right gloves? Where will my hands be? Can I see them?

Go: Only after you have completed a Safe Plan of Action and all controls are in place to complete the task safely. Only after you put on the correct glove for the task along with other PPE. Only after you are positive that you can keep your hands out of the line of fire.

Remember this: Wearing the proper gloves on the job or at home will help prevent cuts and scrapes, puncture wounds, chemical burns, protect from heat and cold, hazardous substances, biological agents, and electrical shocks and burns.

Always keep your hands in sight and never let them move faster than your mind can think!

bought these to stoke the wood burner up with as it gets icbnedirly hot. this is the thrid pair we have had, not for welding, but for dealing with brambles, bonfires, hawthorn trees and now a log fire! Brilliant, inexpensive bit of kit can you make them in a smaller size for us girls please?